Wisdom Teeth Removal: 8 Ways to Make Recovery Easier
No one is excited to have their wisdom teeth removed. After all, you’ve likely heard stories of puffy cheeks and painful recoveries. Just remember, though, that everyone’s recovery is different—and that there are some tried-and-true things you can do to make healing faster and easier.
Plan Ahead
Start by clearing your calendar for several days after your procedure. Your oral surgeon will recommend how long you should stay home from work or school, and how long you should avoid strenuous activity.
Then, since you’ll need a family member or friend to drive you home, arrange for someone to accompany you as soon as your procedure as scheduled.
You also may want to have some supplies at home to make your recovery easier, including:
- Alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash (salt water also works)
- Gauze (although you likely will be sent home with some)
- Over-the-counter pain medicine
- Soft foods
Try to create an environment that will be as stress-free as possible when you return home. You will need to rest and probably won’t feel up to household chores or errands.
Leave the Gauze In
Your surgeon will pack the area around the removal site with gauze before you leave. And it’s important to leave it in until the bleeding slows down. However, if the gauze becomes overly saturated, it’s OK to replace it with clean gauze. You also may find it helpful to bite down on the gauze gently.
Get Plenty of Rest
Rest always plays a key role in healing. Take this opportunity to read a book that’s been on your wish list for a while, binge-watch a new TV series or nap like a champ. Just remember to elevate your head when before dozing off.
Eat Soft Foods
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons provides many ideas on what to eat as you recover. During the first few days, it’s best to only eat very soft foods, like apple sauce, yogurt and ice cream. After 24 hours, you can move to semi-solid foods like scrambled eggs, oatmeal and mashed potatoes.
Apply Ice
Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to your cheek and jaw. This will not only feel good; it will also help reduce swelling.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Your take-home instructions will include information on when you can brush and floss again regularly.
After 24 hours, you’ll likely be instructed to gently rinse (this is not the time to swish or gargle) your mouth with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash or salt water. Move your entire head side to side, and then don’t spit. Instead, open your mouth over the sink and let the liquid fall out.
When it’s OK to brush and floss again, do so gently, avoiding the area where your wisdom teeth were removed.
Consider OTC Pain Medication
Your oral surgeon will give you instructions on how to manage your pain at home. If you’re in pain and have been instructed to take OTC (over the counter) pain medication, don’t hesitate to take it. Sometimes, just one dose can make you feel better or help you fall asleep.
Know What Not to Do
There are some things you should avoid after wisdom teeth removal, including:
- Chewing food within the first 24 hours
- Drinking caffeine and alcohol, or fizzy, acidic or hot drinks
- Drinking through a straw
- Rinsing your mouth within the first 24 hours
- Smoking
- Strenuous exercise
Here When You Need Us
At Midwest Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help. From answering your questions and helping you determine if removal is right for you to scheduling your procedure and making sure you’re well on your way to recovery, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
